LPG, also known as liquefied petroleum gases, is one of the best known. It is because this is the one we use the most in our daily lives, such as to turn on the stoves. These types of gases can also be found as part of natural gas and are made up of petroleum derivatives; in short, it is a mixture between butane gas and propane.

In addition to domestic use, LPG can also be found as fuel for cars, for heating and even in water and food. Its use is very widespread; however, few people know very well about this type of gas.

How are liquefied gases obtained?

LPG is obtained from the distillation of petroleum, under normal conditions they are in a gaseous state, so a certain pressure is applied to liquefy them. After this process they are stored in cylinders to make their use and transport easier. It should be noted that LPG can also be obtained from natural gas and the process of obtaining it is similar to that of crude oil.

The hydrocarbons mentioned are butane and propane gas. Both are obtained from the oil refinery. For its part, propane is a type of colourless and odourless gas, it is usually used as a domestic and industrial fuel. In addition, butane is colourless and highly flammable. It is also used as domestic fuel.

General characteristics of LPG

As we already mentioned, LPG is a mixture of butane and propane. Likewise, each one can come separately or in different percentages of mixture. This means that each liquefied gas has its own unique characteristics depending on how it has been mixed and manufactured. However, they also share many similarities, which we will discuss below.

They have no smell or colour

Considering that both butane and propane gas share this characteristic, it is expected that LPG will also have it. You won’t have to worry about bad smells, however, it is more dangerous as leaks are difficult to detect. That is why a substance with a distinguished odour is usually added.

It is dense, but not toxic.

LPG are not toxic to our body. This means that you can inhale it for a long time without suffering any kind of ailment or deterioration. However, it is necessary to emphasize that it can displace oxygen, so it is not recommended to breathe it for a long time. The good news is that it is heavier than air, so it is usually kept in low areas.

Cheap and accessible

Apart from having an affordable price, LPG usually has a great performance compared to other fuels. This means that you do not have to pay such high bills or so frequently when acquiring it.

Highly flammable

Many types of gases are flammable, and LPG is no exception. This means that if it meets any type of electricity source or fire; it will burn instantly.

LPG are friendly to the environment

This is one of the most outstanding characteristics of gases and is present in any of their uses and mixtures. However, keep in mind that it is not exactly a green or ecological fuel. This is because it is not renewable and its refinement process can be polluting. However, we can ensure that it is a fuel that pollutes much less compared to other alternatives.

While more complicated to install than traditional solutions, it offers many savings and efficiency benefits.